On December 1, the entire globe recognizes World AIDS Day. 

It’s an important time for people worldwide to unite in the fight against HIV, show support for people living with HIV, and to commemorate those who have died from an AIDS-related illness. 

Today, one in seven of people who are infected with HIV are not aware they have the virus and are at risk of spreading it to others. If left untreated, the virus can progress to AIDS, a deadly and incurable disease. 

AIDS, or Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome, can occur in the later stages of an HIV (Human Immunodeficiency Virus) infection when a person’s immune system is too weak to fight off the virus. 

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) estimates more than one million people in the United States are living with HIV. 

This is why testing remains so important.

Here is some important information about HIV testing and prevention you should know...